Will Putting Pillows in the Dryer Kill Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are a persistent problem in homes, and one of the most common concerns is whether using a clothes dryer can effectively kill these pests. Many people wonder: Will putting pillows in the dryer kill bed bugs? The answer is yes—when done correctly, but it has limited success in eliminating your problem. This guide will explain how a dryer can help eliminate bed bugs and their eggs, the necessary heat and time requirements, and the best practices for using this method effectively, but there is a catch. Make sure to read until the end!

Does the Dryer Kill Bed Bugs?

Yes, a clothes dryer can kill bed bugs, but it must reach the proper temperature and run for the correct amount of time. Bed bugs and their eggs cannot survive high temperatures, making heat treatment one of the most effective ways to eliminate them.

How Does a Dryer Kill Bed Bugs?

A dryer works by exposing bed bugs to extreme heat, which they cannot withstand. Will dryer heat kill bed bugs? Absolutely. Heat-treated fabrics and pillows can stop an infestation in its tracks. The key is to ensure that the temperature inside the dryer reaches at least 120°F (49°C) to be effective against both live bed bugs and bed bug eggs.

How Long in the Dryer to Kill Bed Bugs?

The time required to kill bed bugs depends on the heat settings and the thickness of the items being dried. So, how long to dry for bed bugs? The general recommendation is:

High heat (120°F or above) for at least 30 minutes ensures that both bed bugs and bed bug eggs are killed.
For thicker items like pillows, bed linens, and comforters, a drying time of 40–50 minutes is safer.

Can a Dryer Kill Bed Bug Eggs?

Yes. Will a dryer kill bed bug eggs? If the dryer is set to high temperatures and runs for at least 30 minutes, it will effectively eliminate both adult bed bugs and their eggs.

Can Bed Bugs Live in Your Pillow?

Yes, bed bugs can live in pillows. They use pillows as a hiding spot, laying eggs inside pillow seams and crevices. If you notice signs of bed bugs on pillows, such as dark spots or shed skins, immediate action is required.

Will Bed Bugs Die in the Dryer?

Yes. Will bed bugs die in the dryer? Running your pillows in the dryer on high heat will kill bed bugs and eggs.

How to Kill Bed Bugs in a Clothes Dryer

If you suspect bugs in pillows or other infested items, follow these steps:

Wash and Dry – If possible, wash the pillows in hot water first. Use the washing machine on the highest heat setting.
High Heat Drying – Place the pillows in the dryer and set it to the highest heat setting.
Run for 30–50 Minutes – How long dryer bed bugs? 30 minutes on high heat is the minimum, but 40–50 minutes is better for pillows.
Check for Signs – After drying, inspect pillows for any remaining signs of bed bugs.
Repeat if Necessary – If you suspect an ongoing bed bug infestation, repeat the process.

Using a Dryer Alone Won’t Eliminate Bed Bugs Completely

While using a dryer to kill bed bugs can be effective for infested items, it is unlikely to completely eliminate bed bugs in your home. Bed bugs can hide beyond your bedding, such as cracks in walls, behind furniture, and inside mattresses. Additionally, they can lay bed bug eggs in locations that are difficult to reach with heat, making reinfestation likely if not fully treated.

Even if you successfully kill bed bugs in your pillows, bed linens, and clothing, bed bugs survive elsewhere and will continue to spread if the entire infested area isn’t treated.

The Best Solution: Professional Heat Treatment

For complete bed bug control, it’s best to consult a professional bed bug exterminator who can perform whole-home heat treatment. Heat treatment professionals raise the temperature in your home to levels that kill bed bugs in all their hiding places, eliminating the infestation at its source. This method is far more effective than relying solely on a clothes dryer and ensures that live bed bugs and bed bug eggs are completely eradicated.

Preventing Bed Bugs in Pillows

Once you have successfully eliminated bed bugs, follow these tips for bed bug control:

Use bed bug-proof pillowcases.
Wash and dry bedding regularly.
Keep your sleeping area free of clutter.
Avoid bringing infested items into your home.
If you travel, inspect your bed linen and luggage before returning home.

Conclusion: Using a Dryer to Kill Bed Bugs Works, But Professional Help is Best

Can dryer heat kill bed bugs? Yes, when done correctly. Running your pillows in the dryer on high heat for at least 30 minutes is an effective method for killing bed bugs in the dryer. However, a dryer alone won’t eliminate an entire infestation. For complete eradication, contact a professional bed bug exterminator who can use whole-home heat treatment to fully eliminate bed bugs from your home.

By following these bed bug prevention tips and seeking professional help when needed, you can protect your home and eliminate these unwelcome pests from your bedding and pillows. If you suspect bed bugs live inside pillows, act fast—using a dryer to kill bed bugs is a good first step, but full eradication requires a comprehensive heat treatment plan.